In the last few weeks we have had some encouraging news from fellow believers. One who was persecuted at his work was reduced in hours, then due to a series of uncontrollable results (by their employer). The employer was forced to give him more hours and he also found good employment at a second job. Before that we got the news that a friend of ours who was a university professor who was the victim of a hostile work environment for his religious observance was awarded a 5.7 million dollar settlement for the actions they committed. He documented everything they did against him and his children who were also attending Emporia State University. In the end the case against his former employer was overwhelming and the court decided they should pay. Small or great these victories are encouraging in a world that seems to be continually against Christian values and moral convictions. It seems that there are always reports of those suffering even to death in other places of the world simply for believing in Christ. It is nice to see the occasion for victory for our brethren on this side of His eternal kingdom.

The bible shows that followers of Jesus will have trials and difficulties in life but he also promises that he will never leave us or forsake us. As one pastor put it, “life would not be interesting if we did not have trouble in it.” There are many places in the bible where those whom God loves were blessed in increased and also blessed against their enemies. Even for those who gave their life for His sake reap a reward that is far greater than what they lost. One passage reminds us of the awesome power that stands behind us in times of trouble:

Romans 8:29-31 (NIV)

29 For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters. 30 And those he predestined, he also called; those he called, he also justified; those he justified, he also glorified.

31 What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?

Oftentimes we do not think of God’s awesome power when it is brought to our well being. This passage reminds us that in His son Jesus Christ he is continually shaping and controlling our lives and when trouble occurs He is right there controlling and allowing it to suit His will for us. Those who are against us and against Him may seem like they will always win most battles but in reality the moment they went up against somebody that God loves they already lost the war before it began. God will always be there for us in battle if we seek him in times of our distress.

No matter what, always remember it is simple: God always wins!

Your Brother in Christ,

Steve Koenig

Lakeshore Fellowship